Discipline and personal growth

For a genuine and lasting growth of one’s life to occur, one must practice a systematic method of self-discipline and self-training. Mere philosophy and intellectual knowledge cannot stand firm in time of need, if one does not know how to use the essentials of that philosophy in one’s daily life. Applying theoretical knowledge and living with it in daily life is called practice. Concepts need to be applied and expressed in activity.

Practice requires discipline. Yet discipline should not be rigidly imposed upon one’s activities, but practitioners should learn to commit themselves and accept discipline as an essential for personal self-growth.

On the way to self-transformation, self-discipline is indispensable to both those who live in the world and those who renounce the world. One needs to follow a self-imposed plan of activities that lead to the accomplishment of the desired goal or goals.

There also needs to be a bridge between one’s inner and outer life. Here again a discipline in contemplation and meditation is the foundation of that bridge.

People should not be tempted by the mere techniques used by others, but should learn instead to cultivate their own and live in accordance with their intrinsic nature and thus be authentic.

As human beings we need to take charge of our lives grounded in a sound philosophy and an effective way of living. Another important step in this process is self analysis and right actions. By right action, it is implied doing what needs to be done when it needs to be done and doing whatever it is in an ethical manner.

By self analysis, one needs to observe the mind without becoming attached to thoughts that may be disturbing or negative. When restless, it is helpful to visualize one’s thoughts disappearing into a large ocean of consciousness. This calms the mind and one learns to see circumstances as they are instead of the way one imagines them to be. Thoughts are like pebbles on the surface of the ocean, they come and disappear.

Self analysis and observation leads to Self knowledge and a successful, meaningful life. The process of transformation and change requires persistence and vigilance. Without regular endeavors in this regard, it is not possible to transcend one’s habit of thinking and acting in order to transform one’s personal way of life to one of success and happiness.

Discipline helps one maintain balance, whereas self-analysis and observation help one to remain watchful. All these steps taken together will lead to right thinking and right action and a happy successful life.